Friday, October 12, 2007

I am going to go off an a different tangent today and profile a goalie. Please keep in mind that all I know about goalies is that they are a little weird and I can't score on them to save my life.

One of the few goalies with whom I have any experience is Drew McIntyre, currently toiling with the Manitoba Moose of the American Hockey League. McIntyre was thrust into the starting job when Wade Flaherty was injured last year. He performed above expectations and took Manitoba deep into the playoffs before succumbing to the eventual champion Hamilton Bulldogs.

McIntyre isn't a big goalie but plays the position with quickness and sound positioning. Generously listed at 6'1, McIntyre likely stands around 5'9 or 5'10, according to inside sources and my own estimates. Originally drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in 2001, McIntyre failed to sign a contract with the Red Wings and was signed by Moose GM Craig Heisinger.

A career backup until the Flaherty injury, McIntyre was able to post a 24-12-2 record to go along with a 0.922 save percentage in the starting role. Though expected to share time with Cory Schneider this year, McIntyre will likely push for more time given his strong track record and calm nerves.

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